Portraits, anonymous, c. 1895 - c. 1900

ferrotyping, h 128mm × w 84mm More details

Ready-while-you-wait portraits as souvenirs were taken at the beach, the zoo, and at cafes at tourist sites; everywhere the tintypist could set up his booth. They show informal cheerful and jolly groups radiating a sense of fun and pleasure. They were especially popular among clandestine and gay couples. This form of photography guaranteed discretion; there was only one single picture.